Accuracy of infusing i.v. fluids: a Q.A. approach.
Whether delivering medications and parenteral nutrition or replacing fluids and electrolytes, intravenous infusions have become a routine aspect of patient care. Nursing quality assurance studies at Community Memorial Hospital in Menomonee Falls, Wis., found that amounts of fluids infused varied widely from the prescribed amounts. With repeated monitoring, several changes in practice, and increased awareness on the part of the nursing staff, the accuracy of infused amounts was greatly improved. Specifically, as a result of these measures, the percentage of infusion rates that matched prescribed rates increased from 38% to 84% for infusions delivered at 115 ml/hr and from 67% to 78% for infusions delivered at 100 ml/hr.
Nacker
J G
JG
Brubakken
K M
KM
D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing* / Q000592:standards; D006764:Hospitals, Community; D006801:Humans; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D014922:Wisconsin